Maui: Sun Catcher (English/Maori)

Maui: Sun Catcher (English/Maori)

The modern Maui is an intermediate-school boy who lives with his Mum and three older brothers in a city where the day is never long enough to get things done.

Maui grasps the mantle: Mum, I'm gonna catch that Sun for you. That Sun who's always on the run.

With their woven flax net, the brothers drive to the pit where the Sun lives, and make their play to slow the day.

This bilingual book, in English and Maori, brings Maui into the 21st century in a fun and colourful retelling - the first in the international Indigenous Voices series.

Promotion info

Active promotion to media and bookstores nationwide, with a social media campaign targeting younger readers.

Author description

Tim Tipene (Ngati Kuri, Ngati Whatua) is the award-winning author of nine children's picture books and junior novels including Kura Toa, Haere and Taming the Taniwha. A pioneering youth and self-defence counsellor, he leads the Peace Masters programme. Tim lives with his family in West Auckland.

Zak Waipara (Rongowhakataa, Ngati Ruapani, Ngati Porou, Ngati Kahungunu), has illustrated and written for children's books, comics, newspaper graphics, motion graphics and animations. He is currently programme leader of the Bachelor of Animation Degree at Animation College, Auckland.

The Maori translation is by Rotorua-based musician and academic Rob Ruha.